title: Getting started on benchmarking.
abstract: Benchmarking is one of the methods used in continuous quality improvement and other fiscal and clinical effectiveness programs. This article was prepared as a resource for nurses in practice. It provides an overview of benchmarking, including definitions, process, and nursing practice considerations.
authors.affiliation: Department of Standards, Joint Commission on the Accreditation of Healthcare Organizations, Oakbrook Terrace, Illinois, USA.
authors.forename: A E
authors.initials: AE
authors.lastname: Kobs
mesh_terms: D019985:Benchmarking / Q000458:organization & administration*; D006801:Humans; D009732:Nursing Care / Q000592:standards*; D010043:Outcome and Process Assessment, Health Care / Q000458:organization & administration*; D016730:Program Development / Q000379:methods; D017749:Total Quality Management / Q000458:organization & administration*